Meet Our Team!
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Tova Hairston
Executive Director
Tova joined Boomerang Youth Inc in 2021. She was most recently Executive Director of the Coastal Women’s Shelter in New Bern, NC where she managed five agency and service locations, led a staff and volunteer team of more than 75 people, and designed and implemented trauma-informed program strategies for survivors of violence. Prior to that, she was a Program Coordinator for a Duke University program in eastern NC focused on addressing adolescent health disparities and a Program Director at a 21st Century Community Learning Center. Her career has prepared her to lead Boomerang in its current form and to grow the organization to better reach and serve young people in Orange County who may be in the process of disconnecting from school and community. She hopes to lead Boomerang to continue to serve young people who will most benefit from the connections, services and mentorship our organization provides.
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Katie Zinke
Program Manager
Katie joined Boomerang Youth Inc in 2022 as the Student & Operations Coordinator. This year, Katie stepped into the Program Manager position! Katie earned her Bachelors of Science in Biology with a minor in Poverty & Social Justice Studies from Elon University and her Masters of Education in Learner-Centered Practices in a joint program between Spalding University, 2Revolutions and What School Could Be. Katie has a passion for supporting youth in building transferable skills both inside and outside the classroom. In her free time, she loves to ride her horse April, cook and spend time outside!
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Aysha Agosto
Student & Administrative Coordinator
Aysha joined Boomerang Youth Inc. in 2022 through the Bounce Back program, where she quickly made a positive impact with her dedication and enthusiasm. Today, she serves as the Student & Administrative Coordinator, playing a key role in the organization’s operations. Aysha is deeply committed to supporting the growth and success of young people, and she brings a strong sense of responsibility and passion to her work. In her free time, Aysha enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, finding balance and inspiration through these connections.
Meet our Interns!
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Elizabeth Friar
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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Erin Watkins
North Carolina State University
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Myriah Smith
North Carolina Central University
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Masaaki Kamiya
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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Kaviya David
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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Jakaila Williamson
North Carolina Central University
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Niyah Moore
North Carolina Central University
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Jontel Armstead
University of Denver